Top End makes New York Times travel list as Indigenous culture and Country take focus

The Northern Territory Government says the Top End has been placed 14th on the New York Times’ annual “52 Places” travel list for 2026, with Melbourne the only other Australian destination mentioned.

Tourism and Parks Minister Marie-Clare Boothby said the listing was a positive sign for the Territory’s visitor economy. “To be featured in the New York Times – and so prominently – is something Territorians should be incredibly excited about,” she said.

In its own summary of what was highlighted, the NT Government media release pointed to the reopening of Gunlom Falls in Kakadu National Park. Gunlom Falls reopened to the public in 2025, with the Federal Government describing it as “one of Kakadu National Park’s most culturally significant sites” and saying “this site is culturally significant to the Jawoyn people”.

The release also flagged major new cultural infrastructure in Darwin, with the Larrakia Cultural Centre expected to be completed in 2026. Federal Government project information says the centre is located on Larrakia Country at Stokes Hill, will house repatriated cultural items under Larrakia cultural protocols, and will include exhibition and gallery space, education facilities, art studios and an outdoor auditorium.